All set for Neymar Jr’s Five finals

Neymar Jr’s Five returned to Sparta Philippines on Saturday for another round of exciting matches. Over a dozen teams squared off with just four making it to next week’s finals: Manila Tala, Strafford FC, Baggie FC, and Naxional.

Young booters display their prowess during the Neymar Jr’s Five event at Sparta Philippines, in Mandaluyong City on Saturday. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Neymar Jr’s Five is the Brazilian forward’s signature football tournament which pits five-a-side teams in head-to-head in 10-minute matches with a twist. Every time one team scores, the opposition loses a player. It’s fast, technical, and tactical.

On hand for the festivities was Daniel Matsunaga, who represented popular Brazilian-bistro, Naxional South American Diner, as Team Captain. “It’s football, I have loved it since I was a kid and I always find time to play. It’s exciting to have these kinds of tournament in the Philippines.”

Also on hand, was former team captain of the Azkals, Chieffey Caligdong. “It’s challenging and I really enjoyed the game. It was my first time playing street soccer.”

Eight teams now advance to the March 4t finals, including Naxional, Baggie FC, Strafford FC, Manila Tala – from Qualifier B, and Underground, El Retiro, Kidzania, and Laro, featuring football star, Anton Del Rosario – from Qualifier A last February 18.

The Finals will happen on Saturday, at Sparta Philippines, in Mandaluyong City.